CPL 150 Anniversary

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Since first opening our doors in 1873, we've served all Chicagoans with free and open places to gather, learn, connect, read and be transformed. Join us in celebrating 150 years of serving our communities.

Follow the fun: #CPL150

Faces of CPL

See the faces of Chicago Public Library who helped to shape our story and live our mission.

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Join the Celebration

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A sepia colored photograph of a brick Chicago Public Library on a street corner.

Stories We Tell: Branch Exhibits

Explore the exhibit series celebrating 150 years of Chicago Public Library at branches around the system. Learn more.

CPL Through the Years

The reading room in the old water tank, 1873. The water tank was one of the only places left to host the library after the Great Fire.
1930s, Central Library reference room.
1990s, enjoying a summer reading program at Woodson.
Kids with their 81 Club cards

CPL 150 Quiz

CPL 150 Polls

CP 150: How long have you had a CPL card?

CP 150: How long have you had a CPL card?
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CP 150: How long have you had a CPL card?

  • Less than one year
    0
  • 1-5 years
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  • 6-10 years
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  • Not sure - it's been a while!
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  • I plan to get my first card soon
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Test Your Knowledge

150 Books We Love

Chinatown Branch: This branch is one of the first CPL modern branches, encapsulating the spirit of the community. It shows how every branch is an integral part of the Chicago communities.

CTA map with library location pins: This is inspired by the tagline, "In Every Neighborhood. For Every Chicagoan." The goal is to showcase the breadth of CPL branches, being in 81 locations across 77 community areas.

Open book: At the heart of the library is a book.

CPL 150 Store

Shop the CPL 150 Store, with a portion of every sale going to the Chicago Public Library Foundation.

Thanks to the following organizations for supporting CPL 150:

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